McCarthy's Nigeria test

Mick McCarthy's team's mooted game with France is off

Mick McCarthy's Republic of Ireland team will take on Nigeria in May in a warm-up game ahead of the World Cup finals.

The Irish boss was eager for his side to gain some experience against African opposition following Saturday's World Cup draw which pitted his side against Cameroon.

Nigeria are also happy to play the Irish given that they have been grouped with England, Sweden and Argentina.

Ireland's clash with Nigeria is expected to go ahead on 17 May. It will be the first meeting of the two countries at full international level.

Russia friendly

The Republic's proposed friendly with France will not now take place after the World and European champions organised a game against Belgium.

The mooted Dublin clash with Argentina is also in doubt because the South Americans can't make the proposed April date.

Further negotiations are taking place with the Argentine Federation in an attempt to find a suitable date.

The friendlies that have been confirmed so far by the FAI are against Russia on 13 February, Denmark on 27 March and Nigeria in May.